City Yoga - Dolce MindBody Spa

Specials & Events June 8

City Yoga - Dolce MindBodySpa — Sat, 08 Jun 2013 13:51:50 +0000

Show Dad Some Love with this Father’s Day Massage Deal; 12 Week Summer Yoga Special; Restorative Yoga Retreat; Full Moon Beach Yoga; Food & Mood Workshop, Essentials of Ayurveda Workshop; New 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training and more..

Fathers Day Massage Special

Purchase any 60 or 90 minute Massage for Dad & receive a second 1 hour Swedish massage or basic facial for only $39!

Must Book Dads Massage for:
Thursday, June 13th – Tues, June 18th

2nd Massage/Facial may be used by anyone and must be used by Sunday, June 30th

Please call 904-671-2860 or stop in to take advantage of this offer.

Cannot combine with any other specials or discounts

Summer Yoga Special

12 Weeks of Yoga

2 classes per week

$150

(reg $240+)

Students may attend 2 classes of their choice weekly for 12 weeks

Purchase (choose Classes)

* Cannot be combined with any other offers, Must activate by July 15th, 2013

View City Yoga – Dolce MindBody Spa Class Schedule

Mini Retreat: Restorative Yoga & Aromatherapy

Saturday, June 22nd 1-4pm
with Adrienne Bagg, PhD, RYT

Heavy curtains are drawn. The candles are lit. The aroma of essential oils fills the air. It’s just you, your yoga mat, and other like-minded folks looking for a little rest and rejuvenation.

Part I: Rest Begin the afternoon with a 75 minute restorative yoga practice comprised of supported postures in long holds designed to calm the nervous system, reduce agitation in the body, and facilitate healing. Enjoy a diffusing lavender blend of essential oils to aid in relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.

Part II: Snack Break for some healthy treats which will include trail mix, hummus and veggie sticks, fruit and yogurt parfaits, hot tea, and herbal spa water. Chat with others or retreat to your mat and snack in solitude.

Part III: Rejuvenate End the day with a Gentle and Yin yoga class. Expect circular, repetitive movements and deep stretching designed to relieve the body of the stiffness caused from everyday life activities. Enjoy a diffusing blend of citrus essential oils to aid in invigorating your senses and uplifting your spirits.

Space is limited to 12 people, so please reserve your spot early.

Full Moon Beach Yoga

Sunday, June 23 7:30-8:45pm

with Lauren Gemmell & Allyson Sunderman, DPT

This month we had an amazing class with 28 awesome students! We hope you will join us in June to watch the full moon rise over the ocean again. We will meet at 10th Street Beach Entrance. Bring a big towel and water. $15 in advance, $20 at beach (exact change or check if pd at beach).

Food & Mood

Saturday, June 29th 1-3pm

with Jackie Werboff, Psychology B.A., AADP Certified Health Coach

In this informative and interactive workshop we will discuss how different types of food affect the way we feel, think, and act. By discovering the underlying characteristics of how our consumption alters our perception we begin to establish a holistic connection with food.

We will also explore the “energetics” of food– the varying kinds of energy found in different types of food and based on the way they are prepared.

This is a discussion-based workshop, not a boring lecture! Handouts are provided.

$15 in advance, $20 at door

Essentials of Ayurveda Workshop

Sunday, June 30 1-3pm

with Jenn Jacobsen, LMT, RM, CYT

Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that has been practiced in India for over 5,000 years. Ayurveda sees each person as a unique combination of the 5 elements – ether/space, air, fire, water, and earth. These elements come together in different ways to form different body types, personality traits, and tendencies for specific diseases. In this workshop, we will determine and discuss how to understand your constitution, and how this information can help you to find your unique state of balanced health. We will discuss how to use food as “medicine,” and we will go over basic Ayurvedic terms such as vata, pitta, kapha, agni, ama and guna.

$20 in advance, $25 at door

New 200hr Yoga Teacher Training

Directed By: Christopher Baxter, ERYT 500; In the Kripalu Tradition Since 1978

10 Weekends: September 7th 2013- June 8th 2014

Deepen your practice * Learn to lead * Share the joy

In depth, proven curriculum includes expert training and 50 Asanas – core positions, modifications, contraindications & benefitsmentoring in:

6 Pranayamas – essential breath techniques & specific applications
3 Bandhas – internal keys to deep core strength & mobility
30 Warmups – joint mobilization, precautions & safe preparations
Anatomy & Physiology – have fun learning main muscles, bones & joints
Philosophy & “Way of Life” – how to bring yoga into daily life
Teaching Methodologies – practice and learn to confidently lead yoga
Meditation & Deep Relaxation – learn how to guide subtle inner experiences

More Information & Register Now

Christopher Baxter: Architect & master yoga educator, ERYT 500, author of “Kripalu Hatha Yoga”, instrumental in the development of Kripalu Yoga and the Kripalu Center, student of Buddhist meditation master Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, Christopher integrates Buddhist and Yoga training on behalf of awakening spacious well-being in body, mind & heart.
www.innerskyyoga.com

Yoga Alliance Registered

New Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap

Get Beach Ready!

This treatment is designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins while toning and tightening the skin. This treatment is perfect to help you get ready for beach season!

Coffee scrub is first massaged into the skin and then you are wrapped in a warm relaxing compress. Eminence Lychee & Chestnut Firming Leg Treatment is then applied.

1 hour | $75
Book Now

Yoga Teacher Training

200 Hour Teacher Training Now Offered at City Yoga – Dolce Spa!
Learn more about the new training opportunity…

ATTEND A MEET AND GREET WITH CHRISTOPHER BAXTER:

Sat, June 15 6:30-8pm

FRIDAY, JULY 16 6-7PM AND RECEIVE $100 OFF ANY TUITION PLAN.

Lakulish Yoga Workshop

Sundays 2-3:15pm
May 5th- June 16th
w/ Jenn Jacobsen

The Lakulish Yoga posture sequence as taught by Jennifer is primarily seated, however there may be a few standing postures incorporated. The idea is to start low and slow.

Cancelled May 26th

20% Off Your First Spa Service

Schedule a Spa Service

Men’s Day Wednesday!

Men Receive 20% Off All Spa Services Every Wednesday

Schedule Spa Service for Men’s Day

Spa & Yoga Memberships

View Our Spa & Yoga Memberships:

Relax Spa Membership $55
or
Renew Yoga & Spa Membership $110

minimum 2 month commitment

Spa Pricing & Packages

View Our New Spa Menu

Buy 4 Massages get 1 Free
Facial Packages Available

To purchase online select Massage or Facial from drop down to see Packages.

Purchase Spa Packages Here

City Yoga- Dolce Spa | 2225 A1A South Suite B6 St. Augustine, FL 32080 | 904.671.2860

Specials & Events May 26

City Yoga - Dolce MindBodySpa — Mon, 27 May 2013 23:25:39 +0000

12 Week Summer Yoga Special; Restorative Yoga Retreat; Full Moon Beach Yoga; Food & Mood Workshop, Essentials of Ayurveda Workshop; New 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training; Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap to Get Beach Ready and more..

IMPORTANT CLASS UPDATES

Monday 7:30am Morning Flow Cancelled

Friday 9:00am Prana Flow Cancelled

New Class: Fridays 11-12:15pm Easy Does It w/ Adrienne

View City Yoga – Dolce MindBody Spa Class Schedule

Summer Yoga Special

12 Weeks of Yoga

2 classes per week

$150

(reg $240+)

Students may attend 2 classes of their choice weekly for 12 weeks

Purchase (choose Classes)

* Cannot be combined with any other offers, Must activate by July 15th, 2013

View City Yoga – Dolce MindBody Spa Class Schedule

Mini Retreat: Restorative Yoga & Aromatherapy

Saturday, June 22nd 1-4pm
with Adrienne Bagg, PhD, RYT

Heavy curtains are drawn. The candles are lit. The aroma of essential oils fills the air. It’s just you, your yoga mat, and other like-minded folks looking for a little rest and rejuvenation.

Space is limited to 12 people, so please reserve your spot early.

Full Moon Beach Yoga

Sunday, June 23 7:30-8:45pm

with Lauren Gemmell & Allyson Sunderman, DPT

Food & Mood

Saturday, June 29th 1-3pm

with Jackie Werboff, Psychology B.A., AADP Certified Health Coach

Information to come soon!

$15 in advance, $20 at door

Essentials of Ayurveda Workshop

Sunday, June 30 1-3pm

with Jenn Jacobsen, LMT, RM, CYT

$20 in advance, $25 at door

New 200hr Yoga Teacher Training

Directed By: Christopher Baxter, ERYT 500; In the Kripalu Tradition Since 1978

10 Weekends: September 7th 2013- June 8th 2014

Deepen your practice * Learn to lead * Share the joy

In depth, proven curriculum includes expert training and 50 Asanas – core positions, modifications, contraindications & benefitsmentoring in:

6 Pranayamas – essential breath techniques & specific applications
3 Bandhas – internal keys to deep core strength & mobility
30 Warmups – joint mobilization, precautions & safe preparations
Anatomy & Physiology – have fun learning main muscles, bones & joints
Philosophy & “Way of Life” – how to bring yoga into daily life
Teaching Methodologies – practice and learn to confidently lead yoga
Meditation & Deep Relaxation – learn how to guide subtle inner experiences

More Information & Register Now

Yoga Alliance Registered

New Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap

Get Beach Ready!

This treatment is designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins while toning and tightening the skin. This treatment is perfect to help you get ready for beach season!

Coffee scrub is first massaged into the skin and then you are wrapped in a warm relaxing compress. Eminence Lychee & Chestnut Firming Leg Treatment is then applied.

1 hour | $75
Book Now

Yoga Teacher Training

200 Hour Teacher Training Now Offered at City Yoga – Dolce Spa!
Learn more about the new training opportunity…

Lakulish Yoga Workshop

Sundays 2-3:15pm
May 5th- June 16th
w/ Jenn Jacobsen

The Lakulish Yoga posture sequence as taught by Jennifer is primarily seated, however there may be a few standing postures incorporated. The idea is to start low and slow.

Cancelled May 26th

20% Off Your First Spa Service

Schedule a Spa Service

Men’s Day Wednesday!

Men Receive 20% Off All Spa Services Every Wednesday

Schedule Spa Service for Men’s Day

Spa & Yoga Memberships

View Our Spa & Yoga Memberships:

Relax Spa Membership $55
or
Renew Yoga & Spa Membership $110

minimum 2 month commitment

Spa Pricing & Packages

View Our New Spa Menu

Buy 4 Massages get 1 Free
Facial Packages Available

To purchase online select Massage or Facial from drop down to see Packages.

Purchase Spa Packages Here

Prenatal Yoga

Mondays 7:15-8:15pm
4 week sessions: $48/session
or $15/drop-in

May 6- June 3 (No Memorial Day Class) with Danielle

For more information & registration Click Here

City Yoga- Dolce Spa | 2225 A1A South Suite B6 St. Augustine, FL 32080 | 904.671.2860

Specials & Events May 10

City Yoga - Dolce MindBodySpa — Sat, 11 May 2013 02:47:31 +0000

Spa Specials for Mom; Find Balance w Holistic Harmony Workshop; Full Moon Beach Yoga; New Yoga Teacher Training; Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap to Get Beach Ready and more..

Mother’s Day Spa Specials

Must schedule appointment(s) for Wed, May 8th – Wed, May 15th
Gift Cards also Available

$100 | 90 min
Scented Tranquility Massage with Foot Scrub
A 90 minute tranquility massage with scented oil followed by a luxurious foot scrub with your choice of coconut vanilla sugar or citrus salt.
Book now

$100 | 75 min
45 min Scented Massage &
30 min Basic Facial
Book Now

$65 | 75 min
Enhanced Facial- includes eye serum and facial booster
Book Now

*cannot be combined with first time 20% off

Check out our full Spa Menu

IMPORTANT CLASS UPDATES

New:
Tuesday 4:15-5:15pm Strengthen & Restore
Thursday 7:00-8:15pm Free Community Yoga Class

Changing Times:
Tuesday 8am Yogalates moved to Tuesday 12-1pm

View City Yoga – Dolce MindBody Spa Class Schedule

New Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap

Get Beach Ready!

This treatment is designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins while toning and tightening the skin. This treatment is perfect to help you get ready for beach season!

Coffee scrub is first massaged into the skin and then you are wrapped in a warm relaxing compress. Eminence Lychee & Chestnut Firming Leg Treatment is then applied.

1 hour | $75
Book Now

Holistic Harmony Workshop

with Jackie Werboff

Saturday, May 18th

1-3pm

When our daily experience is out of balance we often feel scattered with difficulty maintaining clarity in the present moment. It may feel as though we are being pulled in opposite directions. Life does not have to feel like this. All components of our lives are beautifully interconnected and flow well together once we discover harmony. In this informative and interactive workshop you will learn how to establish harmonious balance in these fundamental areas: Food, Relationships, Career, Education, Physical Activity, and Spirituality. $15 in advance, $20 at door.

Full Moon Beach Yoga

with Amy Schactman

Friday, May 24th

7:30-8:45pm

This month we had an amazing class watching the pink full moon rise! We hope you will join us in May to watch the full moon rise over the ocean. We will meet at 10th Street Beach Entrance. Bring a big towel and water. $15 if paid online or at the studio; $20 at the beach (exact change or check if paying at the beach).

New 200hr Yoga Teacher Training

Directed By: Christopher Baxter, ERYT 500; In the Kripalu Tradition Since 1978

10 Weekends: September 7th 2013- June 8th 2014

Deepen your practice * Learn to lead * Share the joy

In depth, proven curriculum includes expert training and 50 Asanas – core positions, modifications, contraindications & benefitsmentoring in:

6 Pranayamas – essential breath techniques & specific applications
3 Bandhas – internal keys to deep core strength & mobility
30 Warmups – joint mobilization, precautions & safe preparations
Anatomy & Physiology – have fun learning main muscles, bones & joints
Philosophy & “Way of Life” – how to bring yoga into daily life
Teaching Methodologies – practice and learn to confidently lead yoga
Meditation & Deep Relaxation – learn how to guide subtle inner experiences

More Information & Register Now

Yoga Alliance Registered

Lakulish Yoga Workshop

Sundays 2-3:15pm
May 5th- June 16th
w/ Jenn Jacobsen

The Lakulish Yoga posture sequence as taught by Jennifer is primarily seated, however there may be a few standing postures incorporated. The idea is to start low and slow.

Cancelled May 26th

20% Off Your First Spa Service

Schedule a Spa Service

Men’s Day Wednesday!

Men Receive 20% Off All Spa Services Every Wednesday

Schedule Spa Service for Men’s Day

Spa & Yoga Memberships

View Our Spa & Yoga Memberships:

Relax Spa Membership $55
or
Renew Yoga & Spa Membership $110

minimum 2 month commitment

Spa Pricing & Packages

View Our New Spa Menu

Buy 4 Massages get 1 Free
Facial Packages Available

To purchase online select Massage or Facial from drop down to see Packages.

Purchase Spa Packages Here

Prenatal Yoga

Mondays 7:15-8:15pm
4 week sessions: $48/session
or $15/drop-in

May 6- June 3 (No Memorial Day Class) with Danielle

City Yoga- Dolce Spa | 2225 A1A South Suite B6 St. Augustine, FL 32080 | 904.671.2860

Specials & Events May 1

City Yoga - Dolce MindBodySpa — Wed, 01 May 2013 03:02:46 +0000

Mother’s Day Spa Specials, Get Beach Ready with the new Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap, Full Moon Beach Yoga, and more..

Mother’s Day Spa Specials

Must schedule appointment(s) for Wed, May 8th – Wed, May 15th
Gift Cards also Available

$100 | 75 min
45 min Scented Massage &
30 min Basic Facial
Book Now

$65 | 75 min
Enhanced Facial- includes eye serum and facial booster
Book Now

*cannot be combined with first time 20% off

Check out our full Spa Menu

IMPORTANT CLASS UPDATES

New:
Tuesday 4:15-5:15pm Strengthen & Restore
Thursday 7:00-8:15pm Free Community Yoga Class

Changing Times:
Tuesday 8am Yogalates moved to Tuesday 12-1pm

View City Yoga – Dolce MindBody Spa Class Schedule

New Firming Coffee Body Scrub & Wrap

Get Beach Ready!

This treatment is designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins while toning and tightening the skin. This treatment is perfect to help you get ready for beach season!

Coffee scrub is first massaged into the skin and then you are wrapped in a warm relaxing compress. Eminence Lychee & Chestnut Firming Leg Treatment is then applied.

1 hour | $75
Book Now

Full Moon Beach Yoga

with Amy Schactman

Friday, May 24th

7:30-8:45pm

Lakulish Yoga Workshop

Sundays 2-3:15pm
May 5th- June 16th
w/ Jenn Jacobsen

The Lakulish Yoga posture sequence as taught by Jennifer is primarily seated, however there may be a few standing postures incorporated. The idea is to start low and slow.

Cancelled May 26th

20% Off Your First Spa Service

Schedule a Spa Service

Men’s Day Wednesday!

Men Receive 20% Off All Spa Services Every Wednesday

Schedule Spa Service for Men’s Day

Spa & Yoga Memberships

View Our Spa & Yoga Memberships:

Relax Spa Membership $55
or
Renew Yoga & Spa Membership $110

minimum 2 month commitment

Spa Pricing & Packages

View Our New Spa Menu

Buy 4 Massages get 1 Free
Facial Packages Available

To purchase online select Massage or Facial from drop down to see Packages.

Purchase Spa Packages Here

Prenatal Yoga

Mondays 7:15-8:15pm
4 week sessions: $48/session
or $15/drop-in

April 8-29 with Kristen
May 6- June 3 (No Memorial Day Class) with Danielle

City Yoga- Dolce Spa | 2225 A1A South Suite B6 St. Augustine, FL 32080 | 904.671.2860

Specials & Events Apr 21

City Yoga - Dolce MindBodySpa — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 02:05:15 +0000

Pilates Workshop, Full Moon Beach Yoga, Lakulish Yoga Workshop and more..

New Yoga & Pilates Instructor

Amy Schactman and her dog Zola have recently moved to Florida from St. Louis, MO.

She has a Masters in Dance and Theatre from University of New Mexico and Laban Centre in London. She danced, choreographed and taught throughout the United States and Mexico. Amy began her yoga training while dancing in NYC at the Jivamukti Studio and then went on to study Ashtanga, Anusara, and has worked with several master teachers. She received her RYT at the Kripalu Center. In addition Amy has been certified in Pilates since 1999 and finds it to be an amazing compliment to all aspects of her life as well as another mind-body workout.

She enjoys teaching all levels and types of yoga. Amy is a firm believer in proper alignment, breath, and hands on adjustments for her students. Humor also is a key factor in her classes to keep us all light and in true balance.

Pilates Workshop

Mondays 5:15-6:15pm
April 22nd- May 13th
w/ Amy Schactman
Studio 3
Pilates Strength-Stretch Core and Weights workshop:

This workshop will provide you with a full mind body workout utilizing pilates exercises, weights and some specific yoga poses. We will focus on pilates basic principles of core strength, alignment, control, balance and breath. Weights will be incorporated for increasing strength and bone density.

The workshop is open to all levels and ages. You will discover that these fundamentals can be incorporated with your yoga practice, other sports and your everyday life. $50

Full Moon Beach Yoga

with Amy Schactman
Thursday, April 25th
7:30-9pm

Don’t miss a magical experience of beach yoga with the full moon rising. This month we meet at the A Street Beach entrance on St. Augustine Beach. Bring a big towel or sheet/blanket and a water bottle. $15 if paid online or at the studio; $20 at the event (exact change required).

Lakulish Yoga Workshop

Sundays 2-3:15pm
May 5th- June 16th
w/ Jenn Jacobsen

The Lakulish Yoga posture sequence as taught by Jennifer is one that is performed primarily seated on the Yoga mat. The idea is to start low and start slow. There may be a few standing postures incorporated into the group class setting. The entire practice is designed around building digestive fire, purifying the 72,000 nadis (energy channels) in the body, and increasing prana in the navel center, manipura chakra (the third chakra, solar plexus). 6 Weeks $60

Cancelled May 26th

20% Off Your First Spa Service

Schedule a Spa Service

Men’s Day Wednesday!

Men Receive 20% Off All Spa Services Every Wednesday

Schedule Spa Service for Men’s Day

Spa & Yoga Memberships

View Our Spa & Yoga Memberships:

Relax Spa Membership $55
or
Renew Yoga & Spa Membership $110

minimum 2 month commitment

Spa Pricing & Packages

View Our New Spa Menu

Buy 4 Massages get 1 Free
Facial Packages Available

To purchase online select Massage or Facial from drop down to see Packages.

Purchase Spa Packages Here

Prenatal Yoga

Mondays 7:15-8:15pm
4 week sessions: $48/session
or $15/drop-in

April 8-29 with Kristen
May 6- June 3 (No Memorial Day Class) with Danielle

Baby Itsy Bitsy Yoga

Fridays 11:15am-12:15pm
with Danielle Gustafson

6 Week Session: $60/session or $12/class

April 26- May 31

For more information & Registration, Click Here

City Yoga- Dolce Spa | 2225 A1A South Suite B6 St. Augustine, FL 32080 | 904.671.2860

Free Classes & New Spa Service

City Yoga - Dolce MindBodySpa — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 01:58:29 +0000

Free Yoga & Pilates Classes and New Coffee Scrub & Wrap for Reducing the Appearance of Cellulite and Varicose Veins

Strengthen & Restore Yoga Class

Free Tues April 16th
With Amy Schactman
Tuesdays 4:15-5:15pm

View Class Schedule

Free Pilates Class

with Amy Schactman
Monday April 15^th, 5:15-6:15pm

View Class Schedule

Free Community Yoga Class

Donations Accepted
With Caryn Keshner- Register
Thursdays 7-8:15pm

View Class Schedule

New! Firming CoffeeBody Scrub & Wrap

This treatment is designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins while toning and tightening the skin. This treatment is perfect to help you get ready for beach season!Coffee scrub is first massaged into the skin and then you are wrapped in a warm relaxing compress. Eminence Lychee & Chestnut Firming Leg Treatment is then applied.

1 hour | $75
Book Now

Staff Spotlight: Lisa Brock, CYT, LMT, LE

Allyson Sunderman, DPT — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 14:49:59 +0000

I am so pleased to be a part of City Yoga and DolceMindBody Spa as a Licensed Massage Therapist (MA69170), Licensed Skin Care Professional (FB9729653) and Certified Yoga and Prenatal Yoga Instructor. I currently provide Deep Tissue, Prenatal, Swedish and Sports Massage; Foot Reflexology; Body Treatments (wraps and scrubs); relaxing and revitalizing Facial Treatments with Eminence Organics; Private Yoga Instruction as well as teaching group classes. My teaching style at its core is based on Kripalu Yoga, meditation in movement, and infused with compassionate alignment based guidance and hands on adjustments. My intention is to provide an environment of openness and ease, giving participants the opportunity to reach their full potential on every level of the eight-limbed path of yoga. Body, Mind, & Spirit.

As one of the current practitioners of an amazing team, I would like to introduce myself and share my journey that has led me to City Yoga and DolceMindBody Spa.

From a young age I discovered that movement was a way to keep me grounded and focused. Dance and gymnastics was an outlet for emotion and energy during my school years. Upon graduating high school and moving into adulthood it was clear that I needed this outlet for a lifetime. While attending college at Florida State University I began practicing yoga, it was a way to keep movement in my life yet on a deeper level. Yoga helped me manage the anxiety and demands of working my way through school. I graduated from FSU in 1987 with a BS in Communications and a minor in Sociology.

That same year I married my love, Michael Brock, we celebrated 25 years of marriage this year 2012.

I began my professional life as an intern in Advertising and continued that work as an Account Executive at The Tallahassee Democrat and The Florida Times Union, two large Florida newspapers. After a move to Southern California and then back to South Florida, I realized the career path I began as a young adult was no longer fulfilling and took a chance on following my dream to travel. I was hired by American Airlines as a Flight Attendant in 1991 and loved that job for 15 years. In 1994 another great love entered my life, Hannah our daughter. After her birth, Michael and I returned to his hometown of St. Augustine to raise her.

Through my years of practice it was during pregnancy and motherhood that yoga became an even more integral part of my life. When I moved to St. Augustine in 1995, I practiced weekly, for several years with Uma Seaman and was so inspired. I wanted to teach this great practice. In 2001 I began teacher training close to home with Deva Parnell. I received my 200-hour Kripalu Yoga Certification from Discovery Yoga in 2002 and my Prenatal Yoga Certification in 2003. I now have been teaching for 10 years with over 6000 hours of instructing in the St. Augustine community.

Introduction to Reiki: Part II

Jennifer E. Jacobsen, LMT, RM, CYT — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:02:15 +0000

In my Introduction to Reiki: Part I, I provided the history of Reiki and some information on what a Reiki session is like. But I still have yoga students and clients asking me, “what IS Reiki”? The answer means we have to explore some science. So, here we go!

Everything is energy, according to science. The entire universe is made up of a thing called matter. Matter is neither created nor destroyed; it simply changes form. Thus, matter is varying frequencies of energy. If you can imagine energy as being a band of frequency where at one end there is very high vibrating energy that moves very fast and gets very hot. The opposite end would be very low vibrating energy that moves very slow and gets very cold. The higher vibrating energy would be very lightweight, and its heat creates light. The lower vibrating energy would be very dense and heavy, and its lack of heat and light creates darkness. Darkness is, after all, only an absence of light. Thus our sun is an example of high vibrating energy, and a rock is an example of low vibrating energy.

Most matter in our physical universe is made up of lower vibrating, dense energy. It is this low vibrating matter that gives form and shape to our bodies, to earth and trees, and even to the cars we drive around. Matter is neither good nor bad. It simply is. What many do not realize is that our thoughts are also matter. Our emotions are also matter. They are matter and energy in a very subtle form.

When our senses come in contact with the matter outside, we pull that sense data inside our system through the mind. All of our past memories about that sense data is invoked. We may have positive or negative memories about that matter. We think and process that matter on very subtle levels and eventually we form opinions about what we see in the world around us. These thoughts about the world around us and what we like and dislike create emotions and feelings that get registered in not only our memory but also in the body.

Our likes and dislikes have an energy frequency all their own, and the more negative our thoughts are, the lower that energy frequency vibrates. Thus, it causes solid matter to form inside our bodies. It has to go somewhere, and that low energy is within our own mind and system. So, we may get sick. We may experience aches and pains. We may get stiff. And our sickness, aches, pains, and stiffness create more negative thought patterns, emotions, and feelings in our system. How we feel on an energetic level affects everything from how we interrelate with the world and people around us to the kind of food we eat. When we feel good, we tend to eat better. When we feel bad, we tend to eat worse. The higher the vibration our food contains, the higher the vibration we bring into our bodies. The lower the vibration our food contains, the lower the vibration we bring into our bodies.

How does Reiki play into this? Because of the mental focus required and the love invoked in each session, the energy of Reiki is of a very high vibrating frequency. Whenever you introduce high vibrating energy into the body, the body tries to entrain to that frequency, thus the energy of the entire body rises in frequency. This means that the lower vibrating energy is transmuted into a higher vibrating energy.

This means relief from negative symptoms, thought forms, emotions, and feelings housed within the body and mind. It means the body will literally have more energy. Low vibrating matter causes the body to become more and more dense and solid. Thus, we experience a constriction in the muscles, connective tissue, and fascia. We experience inflexibility, stiffness, and pain. Mentally we may experience anxiety, stress, selfishness, bitterness, or general dis-ease. Emotionally we may feel a whole host of negative emotions. All of this is relieved when we shift our own matter. When someone is not feeling well we usually ask, what’s the matter? It’s our own personal matters that our mind-body-spirit system internalizes as illness. The dense thoughts and emotions literally become the dense matters in our physical body. If it was painful in the mind, it may end up painful in the body also. Many do not realize the mind-body connection. Reiki helps to reverse the damage by switching the intent and the frequency in the body, changing states of matter from a more solid form to a lighter form on subtle yet tangible levels.

When the client and Reiki practitioner are working in harmony with the same intent, amazing things can happen in the body. This is how Reiki has come to be known as a medical practice in Florida for the treatment of cancer and chronic pain. Mental diseases have been assisted through Reiki. Anything is possible. It depends on how much we want it and the power of our intention. When attention and intention merge, we can transform many things. It should not be a surprise that our bodies fit into this. As I said, everything is matter and energy, including us.

If you would like more information, would like to learn Reiki, or would like to experience a Reiki treatment, feel free to contact Jennifer Jacobsen, LMT, RM, CYT at Dolce MindBody Spa at (904) 671-2860.

Why Private Yoga?

Adrienne Baggs, PhD, RYT — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 01:28:18 +0000

Group yoga classes rock. They bring yoga to the masses at affordable prices. We also get to see our yoga buddies and feel the energy of a roomful of people connected to the same practice. And…

Yoga was traditionally taught one-on-one because every BODY is so wonderfully, beautifully different! Some students have injuries and need a customized yoga sequence to create muscular balance in the body and avoid further injury. Some students are on fire for yoga and want targeted instruction that applies to their personal goals and growing level of practice.

Here are a few more goodies that private yoga offers:

Your yoga, your time: Reserve regular sessions at times that work around your busy lifestyle.

Personalized attention: Address specific mind-body issues such as low back pain, anxiety, or insomnia.

Cross-training: Learn postures to help you improve your experience of the activities you love so much, like tennis, golf, or running.

Next level: Work towards challenging postures such as headstand or crow pose.

Custom home sequencing: Bring home a specific sequence designed just for your needs and desires.

Less social overwhelm: Enjoy the comfort of practicing at your own pace and have ample time to ask all the questions you need as you go along.

If you are tired of:

guessing if you are properly aligned in a pose
anxiously awaiting for the next time a specific pose is taught in class
feeling overwhelmed (or underwhelmed) by the pace of group yoga classes
ready to do yoga for YOUR body when YOU want…

I invite you to dip your toe into the private yoga experience. It’s amazing what a few sessions can do to deepen your practice and help you make the most out of your group yoga experience.

You + Me + 3 Private Yoga Sessions: $150. Only 10 openings available at this rate till December 31. Redeemable until the end of 2013. Makes for a unique and healthy gift. Gorgeous gift certificates available. Bring a friend if you want ‘cause each additional person is only $5. Call 904-671-2860 to book!

Image courtesy of meepoohfoto / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Benefits of Organic Skincare

Allison Schwartz — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:30:26 +0000

There’s a lot of buzz these days concerning items found in skin care products, and for good reason. This is because most mainstream beauty products are compromised with synthetic preservatives and other highly processed and contaminated ingredients such as parabens, sulphates, and artificial dyes and perfumes.

Being that our skin is the largest organ, which eliminates body waste and is our largest immune defense barrier, when we put these toxic ingredients on our body, it is absorbed up to 60% into our blood stream. Over time, our skin becomes overburdened and weak as our bodies try to cope with these foreign substances. The results are anything but nurturing, rejuvenating, or healing, and can actually affect our health negatively and accelerate the aging process.

Studies have shown that applying pesticides to plants forces them to produce enzymes and antibodies to survive. These antibodies are produced in abundance to fight the toxins found in chemicals, and are then absorbed by our bodies when we eat the produce or apply it to our skin, causing physical reactions.

Over the last 50 years, tens of thousands of new chemicals have been developed, most of which have never been properly tested on humans. It is reported that only 11% of 10,500 chemical ingredients that go into personal care has been tested in the US. Increasing studies show illnesses such as eczema, fatigue, allergies, sensitivities, breakouts, and hormone disruption have a direct link with these synthetic products.

Even more alarming is parabens -a preservative used in many products to maintain shelf life- are being found in cancerous breast tumors.

There is hope though, and the answer is simple: go green!

Organic skin care products are extremely beneficial because ingredients are mainly comprised of fruits, vegetables, plants, and other naturally occurring items found in the earth that have not been tampered with. Much like the benefits of eating organic foods, when we give our skin the proper nutrients it needs, we allow our body the ability to care for and mend itself.

Unfortunately, there are no regulations for claiming a product as organic at this time. Often times, the “natural” and “plant-based” items we find on our local grocery shelves are nothing more than chemically-induced products that have been lightly sprinkled with the ingredients being advertised on the bottle.

The only way to know if a product is truly organic is if it has a USDA seal of approval. If there is a USDA print on the package, this is what a buyer can be sure of:

environmentally friendly- crops are harvested in a manner that is not destructive to the environment
cruelty free
made without the use of harsh irritants, chemicals, or carcinogens
will not cause adverse effects like peeling or burning
does not contain artificial dyes, fragrances, or synthetic preservatives
no GMOs- has not been genetically modified

The facials performed at City Yoga & Dolce Spa are administered with the help of Eminence Organic Skin Care; with a USDA seal of approval, this company is deemed one of the “greenest” lines on the market. Not only do I utilize these products on my clients, I personally use this line for my own skin care regime.

As someone who has alway struggled with acne-prone skin, I can testify that this is the first line I have used that has not dried out or irritated my problematic skin. The fruits, vegetables, and herbs found in Eminence leave my skin nourished instead of stripped as it heals my acne in a healthier and more radiant manner.

In the end, whether choosing organic products or not, please note that the most important way to keep our delicate skin youthful and radiant is to simply wear sunblock. Regardless of what beauty companies claim, the most effective way to protect skin is to shield it from the sun. UVA rays are literally considered aging rays because these rays are what causes hyperpigmentation, age spots, and wrinkles. Look for an SPF 15 for daily use and SPF 30 for prolonged exposure

*If you’re interested in finding out if the products you use are safe, visit www.ewg.org/skindeep to get comprehensive results of the item(s) in question

To purchase Eminence Organics visit our store or call us at 904-671-2860

Visit Glow Green Skincare to read more posts by Allison Schwartz